Pope Leo XIV Meets Tennis Star Jannik Sinner in Vatican
VATICAN CITY (AP) — In a charming encounter, Pope Leo XIV welcomed top-ranked tennis player Jannik Sinner to the Vatican on Wednesday during the Italian Open. Sinner, who is currently competing in the tournament, gifted the pope a tennis racket and suggested a quick game, though Leo humorously declined, citing the opulence of the surrounding antiques.
The meeting came just days after the pope joked about not inviting Sinner—whose last name translates to "sinner" in English—when a journalist raised the idea of a charity match. Leo, the first American pope, expressed his enthusiasm for tennis and noted its positive impact on the world.
Sinner, a three-time Grand Slam champion, is returning to competition after a three-month suspension for a doping violation deemed accidental. He is aiming to become the first Italian man to win the Rome title since 1976. During their meeting, Angelo Binaghi, president of the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation, presented Leo with an honorary federation card, emphasizing the pope’s passion for tennis. The atmosphere was light-hearted, showcasing a delightful intersection of faith and sport.
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